American Truck Simulator Controls to Help Your Driving

American Truck Simulator is one of the most realistic driving simulators out today. But while driving a truck across the scenic landscapes of the United States might sound easy, there are some controls you need to master first.

Mastering the controls in American Truck Simulator isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially for newcomers. So, before you hit the road, make sure to check out our list of American Truck Simulator controls to help you master the game.

1. Basic Driving Controls

• W – Accelerate.
• S – Brake.
• A and D – Steer left and right.
• Spacebar – Engage parking brake.
• C – Cruise control, which is useful on highways for maintaining a constant speed.

While using the basic controls, be gentle with the steering and braking to avoid jackknifing or damaging cargo. Try tapping the keys lightly rather than holding them down, as it simulates more realistic driving.

2. Transmission Controls

Transmission controls in American Truck Simulator are essential, especially if you’re aiming for a more immersive experience. The game offers both automatic and manual transmissions.

• E – Start the engine.
• R – Activate secondary functions like refuelling and truck servicing.
• Shift – Gear up.
• Ctrl – Gear down.
• Enter – Use the dialogue box when stopping at checkpoints or weighing stations.

3. Camera Controls

• 1-9 – Switch between different camera views.
• 1 – Interior camera.
• 2 – Exterior camera view.
• 5 – Top-down camera for better control while parking.
• Mouse – Rotate the camera in free camera mode.
• F2 – Toggle side mirrors.
• F4 – Adjust seat position for a better view of mirrors and dashboard.

Using the interior view (1) provides a realistic truck driving experience, but switching to the exterior view (2 or 3) can be helpful when manoeuvring in tight areas or parking.

4. Light Controls

• L – Headlights.
• K – High beams.
• J – Beacon lights.
• F – Hazard lights.

Turn on your headlights when driving at night or in low visibility conditions to avoid fines and make it easier to see.

5. Turn Signals and Other Indicators

• Left Arrow – Left turn signal.
• Right Arrow – Right turn signal.
• Down Arrow – Toggle hazard lights (when stopping in unexpected places).
• P – Wipers, useful during rain for better visibility.

American Truck Simulator mimics traffic laws, so always signal when changing lanes, turning, or merging. It helps avoid accidents and keeps the gameplay realistic, as well as helping to make sure you don’t get a fine.

6. Advanced Driving Controls

• F3 – Toggle GPS/map display.
• F5-F8 – Different GPS views.
• I – Dashboard display cycle, where you can view fuel, mileage, and other truck information.
• T – Attach/detach trailer, essential for switching loads.
• M – Map access for planning routes.

7. Quick Actions

• F1 – Pause and bring up the game menu.
• F6 – View job details and progress.
• F7 – Access truck diagnostics, particularly useful if you have an accident.
• F9 – Reload location in case you get stuck or encounter bugs.

If you’re new to American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator, you might want to start with some of the basic controls first. This will help you get used to driving in the game in a more realistic manner, which will help you avoid accidents and fines.